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Starting a creative fire at Benchmark

Recommended activities for the coming week

Some of the most atmospheric stories ever told fall into the Gothic genre. Tales overflowing with darkness and character explorations that thrive on the eerie and supernatural.

These stories had their heyday in the 19th century, but their influence continues to be felt in a variety of mediums. That includes Jacqueline Goldfinger’s “The Arsonists.”

Directed by Stephen Weitz of Boulder Ensemble Theater Company, “The Arsonists” has been selected as the second show in Lakewood-based Benchmark Theatre Company’s inaugural season. The show runs from Friday, June 22, through July 21. Performances are at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 6 p.m. Sundays at 1560 Teller St.

“This show is a blend of Southern Gothic with Greek tragedy,” Weitz explained. “But in many ways, it is a very honest and recognizable story about families and leaving our parents’ shadow.”

Set in a Florida swamp, the show tells a story of a father and daughter who are united by the act of arson. But, as the show is inspired by the Greek masterwork “Electra,” the story delves into human relationships and grief.

The cast features Michael Morgan and newcomer Rebakah Goldberg.

Like all true Gothic stories, there’s a touch of the inexplicable to “The Arsonists,” but far from taking away from the struggles of the characters, it aims to heighten them.

“The focus on the idea and meaning of family is a staple of theatrical drama,” Weitz said. “So many of us have relationships with our parents that have unexplored depths. That’s what the show allows the characters to explore.”

Colorado Book Award winners announced

Those in search of a summer read for the mountains, the beach, or wherever you get away to in these sunny months, have a new list to select from with the announcement of the 2018 Colorado Book Awardswinners.

WestFax Brewing gets in on the arts world

WestFax Brewing, located in the heart of the 40 West Arts district, launched a new art gallery in their taproom featuring Colorado artist Noelle Phares.

This exhibit is free and features several original paintings that are a modern homage to the Eestern Slope. WestFax, 6733 W. Colfax Ave., will also be launching a new line of crowler (32-oz cans) designs featuring Phares’ original artwork.

This art will be on display in the taproom throughout the summer months and the limited artist series 32-oz cans will be available in the taproom for purchase for beer to-go.